Creamy Potato, Sausage and Kale Soup

I am currently slurping my third bowl of this addictive creation...so full I might burst!  This is a very rich soup complimented by loads of fresh flavor. This recipe is even roomie-approved (and she hates kale!). Enjoy!

Creamy Potato, Sausage and Kale Soup
5 medium-large red potatoes, chopped into large pieces
1/2 white onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
1 bunch kale, rinsed and torn into bite-size pieces
1 lb. italian sausage, crumbled and cooked
1 can chicken broth
1 1/2 cups half-and-half
3 cups milk
3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons flour
1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon thyme

Boil potatoes until tender, drain and set aside. Saute onion on medium heat 5 min and set aside.

Melt butter on medium heat and whisk in flour.  Add milk a few tablespoons at a time, whisking constantly until thick and all the milk has been added. Add pepper and salt. Set aside.

In a large pot, simmer chicken broth with sausage, carrots, onion, chili flakes, oregano and thyme for 15 min. Add milk mixture, potatoes and kale. Simmer 15 more min. Stir in half-and-half and serve.

Ciao!